Re: Climate (2021.02)
Climate change has — and will — play an increasing role in the decline of ecosystems and our natural environment. Some may say this is an unfortunate-but-unavoidable consequence of human economic development. For others, though, this consequence is indicative of a species not in sync with its surroundings.
Regardless, we now have a closer look at what's happening.
A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences is among the first to closely examine how the loss of nature at a time of great industrial progress is impacting the quality of life for all. The research, done in partnership with the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, looked at more than 2,000 studies from 12 countries. The conclusion? Researchers found in nearly universal terms that environmental resource loss is harming people. In cases where the results were mixed, the documented negative impacts were often felt more acutely by lower-income people and those living in poorer countries.
While perhaps unsurprising, this research helps shine a light on — and quantify — the many benefits of nature. The continued loss of these benefits would be increasingly felt by all.
Though the study looks at nature from a global perspective, we can find hope from the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication and the George Mason University Center for Climate Change Communication. Their survey, conducted in December, found a majority of registered voters of both major U.S. political parties support initiatives to fight climate change. Additionally, the survey found these voters support a range of conservation and restoration policies. This includes 86% support for federal funding that would help farmers improve their practices and restore the soil so it absorbs more carbon. Moreover, 76% support setting aside 30% of America's lands and waters for conservation by 2030.
Could it be that we are ready as a species to tackle the double threat of biodiversity loss and climate change? If so, land trusts are ready and well positioned to make a meaningful impact on both fronts.